As today marks a very special day, in World Gin Day, this is a bonus post in appreciation for the fine spirit.
Truth be told, I am not the biggest fan of gin… it is not a category I will find myself turning to often. Im a rum guy! But, as this day marks the recognition of the category, I have no choice but to share my favorite gin cocktail, if I were to drink gin on this day or throughout the year!
THE NEGRONI!
Coincidentally, this week is also NEGRONI week. For me, what better way to enjoy gin, than in a negroni?
Now, there are some cocktails with gin that I am also a huge fan of: Clover Club, Southside, The Last Word, Martinez, and The Vesper… just to name a few! However, the negroni steals the show for me, and has been an iconic inspiration for my even getting involved in mixology and the spirits industry altogether.
So, without further ado, the legendary negroni.
RECIPE
1oz (30mL) london dry gin
1oz (30mL) sweet vermouth
1oz (30mL) Campari
Stir all ingredients together with ice in a mixing glass for about 30 seconds. Strain into a rocks glass with a large cube in it. Express a long orange peel over the top of the cocktail and rub around the rim for added flavor.
Garnish: drop the orange peel inside.
ENJOY.
This drink is absolutely and rightly named the “king of all aperitif cocktails”. Drink a nice Negroni before dinner, and you will see the magic that it brings.
Salute, and happy gin day!
Jonathan Echavarria 